World Blind Walk 2026 on World Sight Day
Bengaluru, October 8, 2026: About 300 people took part in the BlindWalk on 8th October which is World Sight Day in front of Vidhana Sowdha. It was organised by Project Vision, in partnership with OneSight, EssilorLuxottica Foundation and St Claret College to express solidarity with 40 million visually challenged people globally. India has 15 million blind persons.
Mr. Dharmaprasad Rai of OneSight delivered the welcome address. The invited dignitaries—Mr. Venu Ambati, President – Greater India, EssilorLuxottica; Dr. Vivek Dorai, Joint Director – Ophthalmology, Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Karnataka; Dr. Krishnaprasad Kudlu, Chairman, Vision Committee, Government of Karnataka; and Mr. Shivanand Mangalore, Sub-Inspector, Vidhana Soudha Police—addressed the gathering and highlighted the importance of eye health, empathy and inclusion.
The walk offered participants an opportunity to experience the challenges of navigating their surroundings blindfolded. A memorable moment was Mr. Shivanand Mangalore blindfolding himself after the flag-off and walking the entire stretch, followed by a heartfelt message on the difficulties faced by persons living with visual impairment. Approximately 15 visually challenged persons also participated in the event. Good-quality white canes were gifted to them to support their mobility and independence, with the group organised and led by Mr. Anjinappa.
The enthusiastic participation of all the partner organisations, students, volunteers and guests reinforced the message that inclusion requires collective responsibility and meaningful action. Through World Blind Walk, Project Vision seeks to promote awareness of visual impairment, advocate for accessible public spaces, and encourage society to recognise the dignity, independence and equal rights of persons with disabilities. The event carried forward the inspiring message: “Walk in their shoes. See the world differently.”
Project Vision has been organising Blindwalks from 2014 and has so far organised more 1000 walks in six countries. More than five lakh people have pledged to donate their eyes. We have so far collected corneas from 400 persons through which 800 persons have been given sight. Project has done 12.000 free cataract operations. Please contact Mr Sibu George for any help. +91 94480 71973Da